Michigan Municipal League official to speak at Jackson Citizens for Economic Growth event

Five things to keep you in the know about Jackson-area business news and events:

5. Arnold Weinfeld, director of strategic initiatives and federal affairs of the Michigan Municipal League, will be the guest speaker at a Jackson Citizens for Economic Growth event Feb. 22 called "Creating a Prosperous Michigan." Weinfeld will discuss eight essential assets that can make communities a vibrant place in the 21st century. The program begins at 6:30 p.m. at the Ella Sharp Community Room. RSVP via e-mail at growjackson@hotmail.com.

4. The Michigan Manufacturing Technology Center is presenting a workshop on exploring process costing. It is meant to help, among others, businesses that are busier but still not making a profit. It takes place from noon to 1:30 p.m. Tuesday at the Jackson Area Manufacturers Association office at One Jackson Square. There is no cost to attend the 90-minute session, but registration is required. Call 888-414-6682.

3. The next Business After Hours networking event will take place from 5 to 7 p.m. Thursday at the Allegiance Health Home Medical Equipment/Hyperbaric Center, 700-704 E. Michigan Ave. It is free for members and $10 for nonmembers.

2. If you're in the market for a new home, or are looking for home-improvement ideas, check out the Home Expo 2010 on Feb. 26-28 put on by the Home Builders Association of Jackson. Aside from exhibitors, there will be seminars on insurance and protecting your family from radon. Visit www.hbaofjacksonmichigan.com for more details and to print a discount coupon to attend. Admission to the expo is $5 for adults.

1. If you'd like to know how one new volunteer group can help your organization, RSVP for its open house event. We're Better Together is a nonprofit, volunteer initiative based on increasing the level of engagement with the people and organizations in the community. The event takes place from 5 to 6 p.m. Feb. 24 at Bella Notte Ristorante, 137 W. Michigan Ave. To RSVP, contact Sheila Troxel at 841-4121 or at stroxel@cpfederal.com.